The Morongo Basin's Big Sky
The Morongo Basin's Big Sky
Congressional candidate Derek Marshall argues for thoughtful development of California's district 23
The Desert Trumpet has sent a copy of this editorial to current congressional representative Jay Obernolte (R-CA23) and have asked for a response. We will publish Representative Obernolte’s response if we receive one.
The beauty of California’s 23rd District is something we should never take for granted. From the mountains of Big Bear to the wide-open spaces of the Morongo Basin, these unincorporated areas—often called “Big Sky”—are some of the most breathtaking landscapes in our state. They offer clear dark night skies, natural quiet, and unique ecosystems that make our district special.
But right now, all of that is under threat.
We’ve seen cell phone tower projects pop up in Morongo Valley and large-scale resorts proposed for neighborhoods in Twentynine Palms. The more of these developments we allow without thinking long-term, the more we risk losing what makes our district so unique. Light pollution, in particular, is a growing problem.
The night skies that so many people love to visit and appreciate could soon be a thing of the past. Don’t get me wrong—development is important. But why does it have to happen in the parts of our district that are better known for their beauty and tranquility? Why not focus more on the Victor Valley, which is much better suited for new growth and industry?
Our deserts aren’t just empty land—they are ecosystems that play an important role in the environment….We need to protect these landscapes while still embracing renewable energy where it makes sense—on disturbed land or on the rooftops of individual houses and warehouses.
The Victor Valley already has the geography, infrastructure, and capacity to handle more investment. Plus, it’s an area that desperately needs reinvestment. If we can direct growth there, we can help Victorville, Hesperia, and Apple Valley grow while keeping the natural landscapes of Big Sky protected for future generations.
Our deserts aren’t just empty land—they are ecosystems that play an important role in the environment. In fact, studies show that deserts can act as natural air filters, cleaning the air much like rainforests do. In areas like the Mojave Desert, plants and the soil can absorb carbon dioxide, which helps reduce the effects of climate change. This means we can’t just treat these areas like blank slates for solar farms and other industrial projects. We need to protect these landscapes while still embracing renewable energy where it makes sense—on disturbed land or on the rooftops of individual houses and warehouses.
What we’re seeing in Big Sky isn’t just about development. It’s about making thoughtful, balanced decisions. Yes, we need growth, but we need to be smart about where that growth happens. By directing new industries to areas like the Victor Valley, we can grow our local economy without sacrificing the natural beauty of our district.
Jay Obernolte, our current congressional representative, has failed to take these issues seriously.
While Obernolte focuses on the partisan gridlock in Washington, he’s ignored the very real problems facing our district. Whether it’s pollution from careless developments or the lack of action on housing, Obernolte has shown he’s more interested in playing political games than solving problems.
He’s consistently voted against environmental protections and supported deregulation that puts our natural resources at risk. Just look at what’s happening in Yucca Valley and Twentynine Palms. These areas are being transformed by developments that offer little benefit to local residents, while threatening the very landscapes that define our district. And while he’s been busy with those partisan distractions, families in the Victor Valley are struggling to find jobs and make ends meet. That’s not leadership.
What we need is a plan that works for everyone in our district. I’m committed to securing federal funding to invest in the Victor Valley—bringing good-paying jobs and economic opportunities to the area without sacrificing the natural beauty of places like Big Bear, Lucerne Valley, Joshua Tree, and Twentynine Palms. Expanding facilities like the Symba Center in Victorville and ensuring affordable housing across the district is possible, but we need to focus on development where it makes sense.
The reality is, whether you’re a Republican, Democrat, or Independent, protecting the natural landscapes of Big Sky is something we all want. No one wants to see our night skies disappear under the glow of unnecessary development. No one wants to lose the natural beauty that makes our district special. But if we keep going down this path, that’s exactly what will happen.
It’s time to get serious about protecting these areas. As your representative, I’ll make sure that we prioritize smart development, protect our natural resources, and ensure that the Victor Valley gets the investment it deserves. We can have both—economic growth and environmental preservation—but it requires real leadership and a vision for the future. That’s why I’m running to represent CA-23, and that’s the kind of leadership I’ll bring to Washington. Let’s work together to protect the beauty of Big Sky and build a stronger, more sustainable future for all of us.
Derek Marshall lives in Victorville and is the Democratic candidate for California’s congressional district 23.
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Your article brings up light pollution ruining the night sky. Something that has puzzled me is the fact that Copper Mountain College is TOTALLY lit up every night like an xmas tree. From my home, every night 7 days a week, CMC has almost as many lights as the Marine base that i can see in the other direction. i think they could scale back or eliminate these lights.
i, add, that in the past week, i have noticed LESS lighting from the college and have wondered if someone had brought this to their attention. and it is an improvement.
If you're all in on the 2025 Project, then you'll want to cast a vote for Jay Obernolte, our current congressional representative.
2025 Project is the blueprint to deconstruct our government; wipe out environmental laws and regulations; do away with the Environmental Protection Agency; encroach on constitutional rights and liberties; give the power to control all government bureaucracy and it's agencies to the president; do away with the US Department of Education; and much more in its 900 page blueprint to change America. It's a blueprint for yes, fascism.